by Shelly

Hi, my name is Michelle but I prefer Shelly. I have irregular bowel syndrome (IBS) and depression. Life is really hard for me but I somehow manage.

Nobody seems to take depression seriously. They think it is not important as they can't see it, but sometimes it is worst then having a physical illness. It takes over your life; you are very limited in what you can do. I can get depressed for no entire reason. One minute I’m really happy and hyper, the next I’m all moody and tired.

I do not have many friends as they are not aware of my condition and think it's just an attitude problem. I am also very withdrawn and break into tears coz it’s so unbearable.

IBS is caused by stress and I have a lot of it. I am constantly needing the toilet and this highly affects my social life. It is impossible for me to go to new places in case there isn’t a toilet nearby.

All in all I am very limited and my life is a daily struggle. I try my best to get through and so far I have, lets just hope I continue to stay positive and hopefully my illnesses won't carry on into adulthood!

This story may have been edited by Children First for Health for editorial and confidentiality reasons only.

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• Young Minds
• Childline

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